MANY CHRISTIANS HAVE REVIVED ANCIENT HEATHEN GODS By Major Frank Materu
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Key Scripture: Jeremiah 10:2-5 (NIV): "This is what the Lord says: 'Do not learn the ways of the nations or be terrified by signs in the heavens, though the nations are terrified by them. For the practices of the peoples are worthless; they cut a tree out of the forest, and a craftsman shapes it with his chisel. They adorn it with silver and gold; they fasten it with hammer and nails so it will not totter. Like a scarecrow in a cucumber field, their idols cannot speak; they must be carried because they cannot walk. Do not fear them; they can do no harm nor can they do any good.'"
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Introduction
In today’s generation, many who profess to be Christians have unknowingly embraced the worship of ancient heathen gods. Cloaked in modernity and adorned with religious symbols, these idols are hidden in plain sight. The deception lies in the adaptation of ancient pagan practices into Christianized forms, leading many away from the truth of God. This sermon seeks to expose this subtle but significant drift from true worship and calls believers to return wholeheartedly to the Living God.
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The Reality of Idolatry in Modern Christianity
Exodus 20:3-4: "You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below."
While many Christians outwardly proclaim allegiance to God, their actions betray an affinity to idols. These idols are not limited to physical statues but extend to concepts, traditions, and ideologies that contradict God’s commands. By adopting heathen practices and masking them in religious attire, many believers have inadvertently bowed to ancient deities that God has strictly forbidden.
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The Subtlety of Deception
2 Corinthians 11:14: "And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light."
One of the enemy's greatest strategies is deception—presenting lies as truth. The blending of pagan customs with Christian practices has led many to follow rituals that appear holy but are deeply rooted in idolatry. For instance, some religious celebrations and symbols have origins in heathen worship yet are revered in Christian circles. This compromise has dulled spiritual discernment, leaving many to believe they are serving God when, in reality, they are far from Him.
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The Consequences of Idolatry
Deuteronomy 8:19: "If you ever forget the Lord your God and follow other gods and worship and bow down to them, I testify against you today that you will surely be destroyed."
Idolatry invites God’s wrath. Those who turn to idols—whether physical or ideological—reject God’s sovereignty and expose themselves to spiritual devastation. The false sense of security idols provide will crumble in the face of God’s righteous judgment. Many religious people will find their lives in ruin because they trusted in what could neither save nor sustain them.
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God’s Call to Repentance
Isaiah 55:7: "Let the wicked forsake their ways and the unrighteous their thoughts. Let them turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on them, and to our God, for he will freely pardon."
Despite the rampant idolatry, God’s mercy remains available to those who repent. He desires His people to abandon their idols and return to true worship. Repentance requires acknowledging the deceitfulness of idols and embracing the truth of God’s Word. It is through obedience and submission to God that believers can find restoration and purpose.
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The Call to True Worship
John 4:24: "God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth."
True worship is marked by sincerity, obedience, and reverence for God’s holiness. It demands a separation from worldly practices and a wholehearted devotion to the Living God. Believers are called to evaluate their lives, identify any form of idolatry, and remove it completely. Worshiping God in truth requires aligning every aspect of life with His Word.
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Summary
Modern Christianity faces a significant challenge: the revival of ancient heathen gods under the guise of religious practices. These idols, whether physical or conceptual, distract believers from the true worship of God. The Bible consistently warns against idolatry and calls believers to forsake it. Returning to God requires repentance, obedience, and a commitment to worship Him in Spirit and truth.
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Conclusion
The revival of ancient heathen gods in Christian circles is a call to awaken. God’s people must examine their hearts and practices, ensuring that their worship is directed solely to Him. Idolatry, in any form, leads to spiritual destruction, but God’s mercy offers a way back for those who repent. True worship is not about religious appearances but about living a life that honors God.
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Call to Action
Today, God is calling you to examine your life. Are there any idols—visible or hidden—that you have placed before Him? Renounce them and commit to serving God alone. Let His Word guide your actions, thoughts, and worship. Be vigilant against deception and strive to worship God in Spirit and truth.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Joshua 24:15: "But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve... But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord."
May you find strength and courage to stand firm in true worship. Reject the idols of this age and walk in the light of God’s truth. Remember, God’s grace is sufficient, and His Spirit will guide you as you remain faithful to Him. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith.
